Long Term Effects in Tanzania
These trees were planted in November 2017. Trees of this size can now be used for roofing houses.
But I am like a green olive tree in the house of God.
I trust in the steadfast love of God forever and ever. - Psalm 52:8
Tanzania
This photo was taken in 2022, and shows a thriving nursery which helps to produce income for farmers and their families.
ARDF's project in Kagera, Tanzania is an excellent example of a project with long term effects!
80% of Tanzanians rely on agriculture for their livelihood. In 2017, ARDF partnered with the Anglican Diocese of Kagera to conduct an environmental conservation project that emphasized tree planting. They provided training to farmers to help ensure that seedlings grow into mature trees, and the project also trained them on energy saving solutions that made them less dependent on firewood for cooking.
In addition to the short-term success of this project (300,000 saplings were planted and energy stoves were supplied to 405 families!), the project has continued to make more impact even after it ended in March 2018. Trainings provided became a catalyst in the conservation of water sources, and lessons learned have prompted the planting of water-friendly trees and encouraged the removal of water-unfriendly trees near water sources. Such awareness has spread to other villages that did not participate in the original project. In addition, an awareness of crops and planting techniques has increased the speed of establishing valuable crops such as avocados and passion fruits.
This project raised the profile of the church in Kagera, and since the project's completion, 91 new churches have opened filled mostly with non-believers coming to faith! Christians have also become passionate about taking care of God’s creation around them. According to a progress report:
“Linking tree planting with matters of faith made it more concrete among the church members to the extent that some who participated in the discussions pointed out that backed up with biblical teachings, this programme awakened them to feel that depleting the trees from the environment without replacement is sinful before God.”
The church has been able to reach many people by preaching the full Gospel that brings change in people's lives, and this situation has attracted many to join the church. Praise the Lord for the ongoing ministry of the church in Tanzania!
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